Comparison interface for navigation data

ABSTRACT

A system and method for compiling and converting Aeronautical Radio Incorporated (ARINC) 424 or Digital Aeronautical Flight Information File (DAFIF) files into a binary database. The system and method include a controller module for displaying a comparison interface using a data structure comprising a plurality of nodes and a data architecture for supporting integration of multiple disparate navigation databases. The controller module can also be configured for displaying an options box within the comparison interface, receiving, by a controller module, a first user selection related to a first database of the multiple disparate navigation databases, receiving, by the controller module, a second user selection related to a second database of the multiple disparate navigation databases, the second database distinct from the first database, comparing, by the controller module, first data in the first database to second data in the second database; and displaying a comparison result within the comparison interface, wherein the comparison result includes the first selection and the second selection.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to a method and a system offacilitating data communication between an original data source and aflight management system (FMS). More specifically, for comparing aplurality of navigation databases within a flight management system.

BACKGROUND

A variety of aircraft data is available for use on an aircraft. Datarelevant to a flight can be available from a number of aviation datasources. For example, an aircraft's navigation system e.g. FlightManagement System (FMS) currently stores several databases. A databaseused for flight planning, navigation, and trajectory prediction is theNavigation Database (NDB), which is stored in the FMS. The NDB is astatic database that is updated per the 28-day Aeronautical InformationRegulation and Control (AIRAC) cycle. Currently, maintenance personnelare required to manually update the NDB on this cycle. The NDB is usedto ensure that, for instance, planned closures of runways ornavigational aids get reflected so that the flight crew or the FMScannot select them during the predetermined time period between updatecycles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for displayingnavigation database information, the method comprising: displaying acomparison interface using a data structure comprising a plurality ofnodes and a data architecture for supporting integration of multipledisparate navigation databases; displaying an options box within thecomparison interface; receiving, by a controller module, a first userselection related to a first database of the multiple disparatenavigation databases; receiving, by the controller module, a second userselection related to a second database of the multiple disparatenavigation databases, the second database different from the firstdatabase; comparing, by the controller module, first data in the firstdatabase to second data in the second database; and displaying acomparison result within the comparison interface, wherein thecomparison result includes the first selection and the second selection.

In another aspect, the disclosure relates to A system for comparing aplurality of navigation databases, the system comprises: a display; acontroller module operably coupled to the display and configured to:receive the disparate databases, display a comparison interface using adata structure comprising a plurality of nodes and a data architecturefor supporting integration of multiple disparate navigation databases;display an options box within the comparison interface; receive, by acontroller module, a first user selection related to a first database ofthe multiple disparate navigation databases; receive, by the controllermodule, a second user selection related to a second database of themultiple disparate navigation databases, the second database differentfrom the first database; compare, by the controller module, first datain the first database to second data in the second database; and displaya comparison result within the comparison interface, wherein thecomparison result includes the first selection and the second selection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an aircraft and ground system, inaccordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a method for facilitating datacommunication, such as illustrated in FIG. 1, in accordance with variousaspects described herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a method of navigational database interaction.

FIG. 4 illustrates another method of navigational database interaction.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the option box within the comparisoninterface.

FIG. 6A illustrates the comparison results of the first database are thesame in the comparison results in the second database.

FIG. 6B illustrates the comparison results of the first database aredifferent than the comparison results of the second database.

FIG. 7A illustrates a close-up of a portion of the comparison interface.

FIG. 7B illustrates another close-up of another portion of thecomparison interface.

FIG. 7C illustrates a statistical summary of the comparison results.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A variety of aircraft data is available for use on an aircraft. Datarelevant to a flight can be available from a number of aviation datasources. The data may be organized in various formats used for aviationdata, for example, in accordance with the Aeronautical RadioIncorporated (ARINC) 424 standard for aircraft navigation data, or inthe Digital Aeronautical Flight Information File (DAFIF) format managedby the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA).

An aircraft's navigation system, which may be referred to as its FlightManagement System (FMS), stores several databases. A static databaseused for flight planning and trajectory prediction is the NavigationDatabase (NDB), which is stored in the FMS and can be updated by thevarious sources of aviation data, each in its respective aviation dataformat.

Communication of the aviation data to the FMS NDB can encounter severalchallenges. For example, the data in the ARINC 424 or DAFIF format canbe incomplete such that the formats omit certain desired information.Another challenge is that a particular FMS NDB may not require all ofthe aviation data that is specified in the ARINC 424 file or DAFIFformats.

For the aviation data provided in the ARINC 424 or DAFIF format to beused by the FMS NDB, it must be converted to a binary file format (i.e.,binary standard) that can be processed by the FMS NDB. Several errors orverification issues can arise during the conversion from ARINC 424 orDAFIF format to the binary format.

In previous tools, the ability to compare at least two differentdatabases involved manually reviewing the data of each databases. Theoperation created a report that lacked any hierarchy nor support theconcept of comparing any data types. It was all hard-coded to a specificstyle on procedures. Therefore, the disclosure presents an interface ofan interactive comparison between at least two databases. The interfacecan present an opportunity for a user to interact with changes to eachdatabase as well as better understand the results by displaying visualindicators. The interface can present a user with an options screen toselect the databases and options relating to the databases. Theinterface can present the ability for the user to quickly compare andanalyze databases simultaneously or consecutively. The interface caninclude statistical results and/or expand results in order for the userto drill down to see exactly difference and similarities betweendatabases.

For purposes of illustration and discussion, the present disclosure willbe described with respect to a navigational database for an aircraft. Itwill be understood that the disclosure can have applicability in othervehicles or systems, and can be used to provide benefits in industrial,commercial, and residential applications that use or require dataincluding navigational data. The disclosure will also refer to specificformats for aviation data, although the principles described wouldtranslate equally to any aviation data format that can be converted andloaded to an FMS. The term “aviation data” refers to any data relevantto operation of an aircraft, including but not limited to, navigationdata, aircraft health data, environmental data, or event data.

The aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a system andmethod for facilitating data communication. The data communication canbegin with receiving incoming data, such as navigational data. A subsetof the navigational data is extracted based on predetermined parameters.The extracted subset of navigational data can then be converted tobinary data that adheres to a binary standard. One or more qualitychecks can be performed on the binary data and the binary data can becommunicated or output to an appropriate receiving node.

By way of non-limiting example, the appropriate receiving node includesat least one controller module that can receive the binary data as a setof navigational databases. Each navigational database of the set ofnavigational databases can be verified by the controller module. Uponverification, the set of navigational databases can be used to createaircraft loadable media.

Optionally, a check against previously received and verified set ofnavigational databases allows the controller to determine duplicateinformation or establish a determination of sameness or differentnessbetween the fields, records, or data in each of the set of navigationaldatabases. Once reconciled or reviewed, the set of navigationaldatabases can be used to create aircraft loadable media or a referencedatabase. The aircraft loadable media can be used to update the FMS NDBof an aircraft.

As used herein, the term “set” or a “set” of elements can be any numberof elements, including only one. The term “subset” refers to all or aportion of a set. Additionally, as used herein, a “controller” or“controller module” can include a component configured or adapted toprovide instruction, control, operation, or any form of communicationfor operable components to affect the operation thereof. A controllermodule can include any known controller module, processor,microcontroller, or logic device, including, but not limited to: fieldprogrammable gate arrays (FPGA), an application specific integratedcircuit (ASIC), a full authority digital engine control (FADEC), aproportional controller (P), a proportional integral controller (PI), aproportional derivative controller (PD), a proportional integralderivative controller (PID controller), a hardware-accelerated logiccontroller (e.g. for encoding, decoding, transcoding, etc.), the like,or a combination thereof. Non-limiting examples of a controller modulecan be configured or adapted to run, operate, or otherwise executeprogram code to effect operational or functional outcomes, includingcarrying out various methods, functionality, processing tasks,calculations, comparisons, sensing or measuring of values, or the like,to enable or achieve the technical operations or operations describedherein. The operation or functional outcomes can be based on one or moreinputs, stored data values, sensed or measured values, true or falseindications, or the like. While “program code” is described,non-limiting examples of operable or executable instruction sets caninclude routines, programs, objects, components, data structures,algorithms, etc., that have the technical effect of performingparticular tasks or implementing particular abstract data types. Inanother non-limiting example, a controller module can also include adata storage component accessible by the controller module or processor,including memory, whether transient, volatile or non-transient, ornon-volatile memory. Additional non-limiting examples of the memory caninclude Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), flashmemory, or one or more different types of portable electronic memory,such as discs, DVDs, CD-ROMs, flash drives, universal serial bus (USB)drives, the like, or any suitable combination of these types of memory.In one example, the program code can be stored within the memory in amachine-readable format accessible by the controller module or theprocessor. Additionally, the memory can store various data, data types,sensed or measured data values, inputs, generated or processed data, orthe like, accessible by the controller module or the processor inproviding instruction, control, or operation to affect a functional oroperable outcome, as described herein.

All directional references (e.g., radial, axial, proximal, distal,upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top,bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise,upstream, downstream, forward, aft, etc.) are used only foridentification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the presentdisclosure, and should not be construed as limiting aspects of thedisclosure, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use ofaspects of the disclosure described herein. Connection references (e.g.,attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadlyand can include intermediate members between a collection of elementsand relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. Assuch, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elementsare directly connected and in fixed relation to one another. Theexemplary drawings are for purposes of illustration only and thedimensions, positions, order and relative sizes reflected in thedrawings attached hereto can vary.

FIG. 1 depicts an aircraft 10 that provides an environment for differentaspects of the disclosure. The aircraft 10 can fly a route from onelocation to another and can include one or more propulsion engines 12coupled to a fuselage 14. A cockpit 16 can be positioned in the fuselage14 and wing assemblies 18 can extend outwardly from the fuselage 14.Further, a set of aircraft systems 20 that enable proper operation ofthe aircraft 10 can be included as well as a controller or computer 22,and a communication system having a communication link 24.

The set of aircraft systems 20 can reside within the cockpit 16, withinthe electronics and equipment bay (not shown), as well as in otherlocations throughout the aircraft 10 including that they can beassociated with the engines 12. Such aircraft systems 20 can include butare not limited to an electrical system, an oxygen system, hydraulics orpneumatics system, a fuel system, a propulsion system, FMS, flightcontrols, audio/video systems, an Integrated Vehicle Health Management(IVHM) system, and systems associated with the mechanical structure ofthe aircraft 10.

The computer 22 can be operably coupled to the set of aircraft systems20 and it is contemplated that the computer 22 can aid in operating theset of aircraft systems 20 and can receive information from the set ofaircraft systems 20. The computer 22 can, among other things, automatethe tasks of piloting and tracking the flight plan of the aircraft 10.The computer 22 can also be connected with other controllers orcomputers of the aircraft 10.

The computer 22 can include memory 26, the memory 26 can include RandomAccess Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), flash memory, or one ormore different types of portable electronic memory, such as discs,Digital Versatile disks (DVD), Compact Disc-Read-Only Memory (CD-ROMs),etc., or any suitable combination of these types of memory. The computer22 can include one or more controller modules or processors 28, whichcan be running any suitable programs. It will be understood that thecomputer 22 can include or be associated with any suitable number ofindividual microprocessors, power supplies, storage devices, interfacecards, auto flight systems, flight management computers, controllermodules, and other standard components and that the computer 22 caninclude or cooperate with machine executable code, any number ofsoftware programs (e.g., flight management programs), or otherinstructions designed to carry out the various methods, process tasks,calculations, and control/display functions necessary for operation ofthe aircraft 10.

The communication link 24 can be communicably coupled to the computer 22or other control modules or processors of the aircraft to transferinformation to and from the aircraft 10. It is contemplated that thecommunication link 24 can be a wireless communication link and can beany variety of communication mechanism capable of wirelessly linkingwith other systems and devices and can include, but is not limited to,satellite uplink, satellite communications (SATCOM) internet, very highfrequency (VHF) Data Link (VDL), ACARS network, Automatic DependentSurveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), WiMax, 3Gwireless signal, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) wireless signal,Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), 4G wireless signal, LongTerm Evolution (LTE) signal, 5G wireless signal or any combinationsthereof. It will also be understood that the particular type or mode ofwireless communication is not critical to the disclosure, andlater-developed wireless networks are certainly contemplated as withinthe scope of the current disclosure. Further, the communication link 24can be communicably coupled with the computer 22 through a wired linkwithout changing the scope of the aspects of this disclosure. Althoughonly one communication link 24 has been illustrated, it is contemplatedthat the aircraft 10 can have multiple communication links communicablycoupled with the computer 22. Such multiple communication links canprovide the aircraft 10 with the ability to transfer information to orfrom the aircraft 10 in a variety of ways.

As illustrated, the computer 22 can communicate with a first remoteserver 30, which can be located anywhere. The communication between thefirst remote server 30 and the computer 22 can be via an external datastorage device 31. Non-limiting examples of the external data storagedevice 31 can include, but is not limited to, hard drives, floppy disks,laptops, Universal Serial Bus (USB) drives, jump drives, mobile devices,CDs, storage arrays, or DVDs.

Additionally, or alternatively, the computer 22 can communicate with afirst remote server 30 located at or communicatively coupled to adesignated ground station 32. Communication can be sent or receivedbetween the ground station 32 and the computer 22 via the communicationlink 24. The ground station 32 can be any type of communicating groundstation 32 such as one operated by an Air Navigation Service Provider(ANSP)/Air Traffic Control (ATC).

A second remote server 40 can be in communication with the first remoteserver 30 or the ground station 32. The second remote server 40 cancommunicate with the first remote server 30 using any suitable wired orwireless communication link. While illustrated as the second remoteserver 40, any number of remote servers can be in communication with thefirst remote server 30.

The first and second remote servers 30, 40 can include a first set ofcomputer searchable databases 34 and a second set of computer searchabledatabases 44, respectively.

The first and second computer searchable databases 34, 44 can beaccessible by a first controller module 36 and a second controllermodule 46. The first and second controller modules 36, 46 can run a setof executable instructions to access the first and second computersearchable databases of information 34, 44. The first and second remoteservers 30, 40 might include a general-purpose computing device in theform of a computer, including a processing unit, a system memory, and asystem bus, that couples various system components including the systemmemory to the processing unit. The system memory can include ROM andRAM. The computer can also include a magnetic hard disk drive forreading from and writing to a magnetic hard disk, a magnetic disk drivefor reading from or writing to a removable magnetic disk, and an opticaldisk drive for reading from or writing to a removable optical disk suchas a CD-ROM or other optical media. It will be understood that the firstand second computer searchable databases of information 34, 44 can beany suitable database, including a single database having multiple setsof data, multiple discrete databases linked together, or even a simpletable of data. It is contemplated that the computer searchable databasesof information 34, 44 can incorporate a number of databases or that thedatabase can actually be a number of separate databases.

A first user interface is illustrated, by way of non-limiting example,as a first display 38 that is communicatively coupled to or formed withthe first remote server 30. The first display 38 can be any userinterface, screen, or known computer system or combination or computersystems that can communicate or otherwise provide an output to one ormore users of the first remote server 30. It is contemplated that thefirst display 38 can also obtain or receive input from the one or moreusers of the first remote server 30.

A second user interface is illustrated, by way of non-limiting example,as a second display 48 that is communicatively coupled to or formed withthe second remote server 40. The second display 48 can be any userinterface, screen, or known computer system or combination or computersystems that can communicate or otherwise provide an output to one ormore users of the second remote server 40. It is contemplated that thesecond display 48 can also obtain or receive input from the one or moreusers of the second remote server 40.

A first system 39 that is adapted to interact with a navigation databasecan be defined by the first remote server 30 or the first controllermodule 36. For example, the first system can define a comparison systemthat can identify changes and differences between a plurality ofnavigation databases. Among other things the first controller module 36can display the comparison of Navigation Databases, loadable media,structured query language (SQL) or SQLite export files, and GoldStandard Databases. The first controller module 36 can determine,calculate, or display change statistics and display all differences withan intuitive side-by-side comparison. The comparison results can also befiltered and refined to highlight specific aspects. The comparisonresults can be displayed on the first display 38. The first display 38can show indications of sameness or differentness allowing the user toupdate or amend the reference database. A second system 49 for compilingand converting aviation data, e.g., Aeronautical Radio Incorporated(ARINC) 424 or Digital Aeronautical Flight Information File (DAFIF)files, into a binary file format can be defined by the second remoteserver 40 or the second controller module 46.

It is contemplated that the first system 39 and the second system 49 arehoused on the same server. That is, the first and second servers 30, 40can be a single server, where a single controller module can performwhat is illustrated, by way of example, as being performed on the firstand second controller modules 36, 46.

The source 50 is in communication with the second remote server 40,providing the second remote server 40 with incoming data that can be inthe form of the ARINC 424 or the DAFIF format. While illustrated as asingle source, the source 50 can be any number of sources. That is, thesecond remote server 40 can receive incoming data in a variety of formsand from any number of sources. The source 50 or sources are incommunication with the second remote server 40 using any suitable wiredor wireless communication link.

FIG. 2 illustrates a method 200 for facilitating data communication. At202, the second controller module 46 receives incoming data from thesource 50. The incoming data received by the second controller module 46can include a plurality of records. Each record of the plurality ofrecords can be related to one piece of navigation information oraviation data. The navigation information or aviation data can be one ormore elements from a group of navigation information or aviation data.The group can include, but is not limited to, elements such as anairport, heliport, a runway, a waypoint, a navigational aid (navaid), anairway, an arrival route, and a departure route. Such incoming data canbe from a variety of sources including, but not limited to, radiotowers, satellite, wired connection with one or more data servers, orwireless connection with one or more data servers. Further, it iscontemplated that the source 50 can be any provider that communicatesaviation data, such as navigation data in ARINC 424 or DAFIF formats. Itis further contemplated that the source and associated data can becertified by the relevant aviation authority or regulator, for exampleby receiving a Type 1 Letter of Acceptance indicating compliance with aspecified standard, such as RTCA DO-200 (Standards for ProcessingAeronautical Data).

By way of non-limiting example, the incoming data can be received in theARINC 424 format. That is, the second controller module 46 can receiveaviation data in a file format defined by the ARINC 424 format. ARINC424 format is in a 132-character fixed-length format or ExtensibleMarkup Language (XML) format. Additionally, or alternatively, theincoming data from the source 50 can be an NGA-authorized DigitalAeronautical Flight Information File (DAFIF). While incoming data isdescribed as in the ARINC 424 or the DAFIF format, it is contemplatedthat the incoming data from the source 50 can be received in a varietyof different formats. The second controller module 46 can receive theincoming data through one or more of a wired or wireless connection.

Optionally, at 204, the incoming data can be converted to anintermediate format that is distinct from the original incoming dataformat. That is, the incoming data can be converted to an intermediateformat that is distinct from the ARINC 424 and the DAFIF format.Further, the intermediate format to which the incoming data isconverted, can be distinct from a binary format.

Once in the intermediate format, at 206, the incoming data canoptionally be evaluated by the second controller module 46 based on atleast one of a content, a type, or a fidelity of the incoming data. Byway of non-limiting example, the incoming data can be evaluated usingindependent field checks, interrelated field checks, interrelated recordchecks, or support data checks. Independent field checks can be a checkto ensure the data in each independent field is within a predeterminedrange for that specified independent field. By way of non-limitingexample, the acceptable range of the elevation of an airport could havea predetermined range of −1250 feet (381 meters below sea level) to15,000 feet (4572 meters above sea level). By way of example, in such anindependent field check, if the elevation of an airport was in the datarecord as 20,000 feet (6096 meters), it would be flagged as beinginvalid.

The interrelated field check is a check between one or more fields inthe same record. By way of non-limiting example, on an Airport X record,if a speed limit is provided, then a speed limit altitude must also beprovided. The interrelated field check notes the presence of a value forthe speed limit, then checks to make sure there is also a value for thespeed limit altitude. If the speed limit altitude is missing when thespeed limit is provided, the field from which the speed limit altitudeis missing will be flagged as missing or invalid.

The interrelated record check is used to check the sequencing of recordsor to check for the presence of records. Interrelated record checks canoccur on complex data types, such as, but not limited to, approaches. Byway of non-limiting example, if one Approach Leg record is marked as aFinal Approach Course Fix (FACF), that record needs to occursequentially before the Approach Leg record marked as the Final ApproachFix (FAF). The interrelated record check will flag a record found out ofsequence or provide a flag for missing records when other sequentialrecords are present.

The support data check can check for the presence of other data referredto by a first record. By way of non-limiting example, an Approach Yrecord refers to a waypoint and a runway. The support data check ensuresthat the data for the waypoint and the runway referenced by the ApproachY record exists in the database. If the waypoint data is missing, thesupport data check will flag the waypoint field in the Approach Yrecord, indicating that the supporting data for the waypoint is missingor invalid.

Flagged fields or records of the incoming data can be rectified orreconciled using an interactive editor. Flagged fields or records mustbe reconciled or reconciled before a notification at 208 is provided bythe second controller module 46. The notification can indicate that theincoming data is validated or that the incoming data has been correctedor is correct. Optionally, during reconciliation, the source 50 of theincoming data is provided a report of the flagged fields or records. Theflagged fields or records communicated to the source 50 can indicate tothe source 50 which fields or records need to be corrected.

Optionally, data from more than one source can be combined. By way ofnon-limiting example, the DAFIF source can provide information regardingAirport A, Airport B, and Airport C. The ARINC 424 source can includeinformation about Airport A, Airport B, and Airport D. Combining theinformation in the intermediate format allows for the information forAirport A, Airport B, Airport C, and Airport D to be available and notduplicated.

At 210, the second controller module 46 extracts a subset of theincoming data based on a set of predetermined parameters. By way ofnon-limiting example, the predetermined parameters for Airline X can bea list of countries. The list of countries selected as the predeterminedparameters can be the countries that aircraft from Airline X travelsthrough, near, lands at or takes off from. That is, the subset of theincoming data extracted for Airline X can be determined by countriesselected by Airline X, so that incoming data related to counties that donot impact the flight path of aircraft from Airline X can be excluded.It is contemplated that any number of subsets of the incoming data canbe extracted based on one or more parameters. Non-limiting examples ofpredetermined parameters can include any one or more International CivilAviation Organization (ICAO) codes, country, region, flight plan, modelof aircraft, model of engine, specific airports, specific approaches ordepartures, types of approaches or departures, geographic latitude orlongitude boundaries for the inclusion or exclusion of airways, holdpatterns, very high frequency (VHF) navigational aid (navaids), enroutewaypoints, enroute non-directional beacons, minimum off route altitudes,runway surface types, standard instrument departures, terminalnon-directional beacons, and terminal waypoints.

Optionally, at 212, the second controller module 46 can compare thesubset of incoming data to a prior iteration. For instance, if thesubset of incoming data is for an NDB that has a predetermined updatecycle such as 28 days, the subset can be compared to the last cycle ofdata or a subset thereof. By way of non-limiting example, a first subsetor subset from a prior iteration or cycle can be extracted from firstincoming data using predetermined parameters. A second subset or a latersubset can be extracted from second incoming data using the same or atleast partially the same predetermined parameters used to extract thefirst subset from the first incoming data. The second controller module46 can then compare the first subset to the second subset using acomparison tool. By way of non-limiting example, the comparing of thefirst subset and second subset can include a predetermined statisticalanalysis. When at least one predetermined statistical analysis issatisfied, the second controller module 46 can validate the comparing ofthe first subset and the second subset. Optionally, fields and recordsin the second subset can be flagged based on the comparison between thefirst subset and the second subset. An interactive tool can be used toassess, change, revert, or otherwise amend flagged fields or records inthe second subset. It is also contemplated that the outcomes of thestatistical analysis can be displayed, for example, by the seconddisplay 48.

At 214, the first subset or the second subset, having satisfied at leastone predetermined statistical analysis in the comparing, is converted tobinary data according to a binary format. The binary format can, forexample, have a 32-bit registry. However, the binary format to which thefirst or second subset can be converted can be any binary formatincluding, but not limited to registry lengths of 8-bit, 16-bit, or64-bit. It is contemplated that the first subset or the second subsetcan be in the ARINC or the intermediate format before the conversion tothe binary format.

The conversion also includes a digital signature that is included in orwith the binary data. The digital signature can be generated, forexample, by a cryptographic hash function, public/private keyauthentication using symmetric or asymmetric encryption, or blockchainprotocol, where a specialized data key for generating or reading thedigital signature can be one or more specialized data keys. The digitalsignature verifies and provides a means of authentication for the binarydata. For example, the digital signature provides verification that thebinary data is from the second controller module 46. That is, acontroller module receiving the binary data will be able to identify andverify the second controller module 46 as the provider of the binarydata.

Further, the digital signature can also include a databaseidentification (ID) number. That is, only a controller module with thedatabase ID number matching the database ID number in the digitalsignature can access the binary data from the second controller module46. The database ID number can provide a communication or verificationto the second controller module 46 that the correct controller modulereceived the binary data. It is contemplated that the databaseidentification (ID) number can be vehicle-specific such as linked orrelated to a tail number of an aircraft, which is unique to thataircraft.

The first subset or the second subset are compressed into the binarydata by the second controller module 46, using, for example a packingtool. Data in the first subset or the second subset is traced to a dataquality requirement, where the data quality requirements are in acomputer-readable format that contains the data quality requirementsvalues. The data quality requirements can be airline dependent anddefine expectations related to data characteristics that ensure thesuitability of data in the first subset or the second subset for aspecific airline.

The packing tool uses the data quality requirements values contained inthe computer-readable format to pack and verify the appropriate packingfor the first subset or the second subset. Since the packing tool usesthe data quality requirements values, this allows the type, number, orother associated aspects of the data quality requirements to changewithout having to modify the packing tool. Additionally, the packingtool can have the ability to parse the data quality requirements in thecomputer-readable format and view it as a stand-alone document. Thisensures easy review and understanding of the data quality requirementsby themselves.

The binary data is compressed by at least an order of magnitude ascompared to the first subset or the second subset. In a non-limitingexample, the binary data can be compressed three orders of magnitude ascompared to the first subset or the second subset. In addition to thebenefit of compression, the binary data includes retrieval informationfor improved access times over binary data without the retrievalinformation.

The binary data can include the first subset and the second subset. Thepacking tool can use the comparison tool to compare data from the firstsubset to the data of the second subset. By way of non-limiting example,data that is identified as a duplicate or the same in the first andsecond subsets can be packed once in the binary format and flagged asgood for both cycles or subsets. Data that is identified as not aduplicate or different between the first subset and the second subset ispacked twice and flagged as first subset only or second subset only.

At 216, the second controller module 46 performs a set of quality checkson the binary data. At least one of the set of quality checks includesautomatically determining if the digital signature is satisfied. Thiscan include, by way of non-limiting example, ensuring that the digitalsignature is correct and present in the binary data.

Optionally, at 216, the second controller module 46 can compare thebinary data to a prior iteration of the binary data. By way ofnon-limiting example, a first binary data can be a prior iteration ofthe binary data that is converted from the first subset. That is, thefirst binary data can be created from a previous ARINC cycle. A secondbinary data can be converted from the first subset or the second subset.That is, the second binary data can be created from a current ARINCcycle. The second controller module 46 can then compare the first binarydata to the second binary data using a comparison tool. By way ofnon-limiting example, the comparing of the first binary data and secondbinary data can include a predetermined statistical analysis. When atleast one predetermined statistical analysis is satisfied, the secondcontroller module 46 can complete the comparing of the first binary dataand the second binary data.

At 218, the second controller module 46 can direct the communication ofthe binary data, having satisfied at least one predetermined statisticalanalysis in the comparing. That is, the second controller module 46 canoutput the binary data with the digital signature to an appropriatereceiving node. The binary data can include any number of a set ofnavigation databases, where the binary data or each of the set ofnavigational databases includes the digital signature. By way ofnon-limiting example, an appropriate receiving node can be the firstremote server 30 or an external data storage device.

Directing communication or output to an appropriate receiving node caninclude the wired or wireless transmission of the binary data, or thesecond binary data, or the set of navigational databases from the secondremote server to another remote server or other external datastorage/transmission devices, or any combinations thereof. It will alsobe understood that the particular type or method of communication is notcritical to the disclosure, and later-developed wireless or wiredcommunication methods are certainly contemplated as within the scope ofthe current disclosure.

The binary data can form a database for at least one given cycle for theFMS of the aircraft 10. That is, the binary data can provide the dataand information required to build a flight plan and process that planwhen airborne to the FMS NDB stored on the computer 22 of the aircraft10 for the navigation of a cycle of operation of the aircraft 10.

Additionally, or alternatively, to the method 200, the first controllermodule 36 can receive incoming data defined by a predeterminedaircraft-specific data standard such as ARINC 424 or DAFIF to define afirst data set or the first subset. The first controller module 36 canfurther receive data quality requirements that define datacharacteristics for at least one of the FMSs or a predetermined airline.The first controller module 36 can convert the first subset according tothe data quality requirements to form a second data set or the secondsubset representative of the data characteristics. The first controllermodule 36 can further validate the second subset according to the dataquality requirements. In response to the validation of the secondsubset, the first controller module 36 can digitally authorize thesecond subset and direct the output of communication of the validatedsecond subset.

FIG. 3 illustrates a method 300 of navigational database interaction. At302, the binary data or the set of navigation databases is received bythe first controller module 36 of the first remote server 30. It will beunderstood that this could also be accomplished by the same controllermodule as the method 200 or a different controller module asillustrated. It is contemplated that the set of navigation databases orbinary data may be created by a first party in the method 200 andreceived by a second party in the method 300. However, it will beunderstood that this need not be the case. The term receiving can alsomean loading, accessing, or otherwise presenting the set of navigationsdatabases to the controller module.

At 304, the first controller module 36 can verify the digital signaturefor the binary data or for each navigation database of the set ofnavigational databases. The authentication or validity of the digitalsignature can be determined automatically by the first controller module36. Alternatively, a user of the first remote server 30 can request thefirst controller module 36 to authenticate or verify the digitalsignatures. If the digital signature is not verified or is missing, thefirst controller module 36 will not open the data in the set ofnavigation databases.

Verification of the digital signature by the first controller module 36can include a check of the digital signature to ensure that the providerof the binary data is the second controller module 46. If the binarydata is in the correct format, but does not include the digitalsignature or if the digital signature does not correspond to the secondcontroller module 46, communication of the missing or irregular digitalsignature can be provided to the user.

Verification of the digital signature can require checking the databaseidentification (ID) number included in the digital signature of thebinary data. That is, the first controller module 36 can only open thebinary data if the database identification (ID) in the digital signaturematches the database identification (ID) number of the first controllermodule 36.

Optionally, the first controller module 36 can communicate via the firstdisplay 38 to the user information related to the verification of thedigital signature. That is, the first display 38 can communicate thatthe digital signature was verified, or that the digital signature wasnot verified. Further, details related to the digital signature notbeing verified can be provided by the first display 38. Additionally, oralternatively, the first controller module 36 or the user cancommunicate with one or more predetermined remote servers orindividuals, including the second controller module 46, the verificationor failure to verify the digital signature of the binary data receivedby the first controller module 36.

At 306, once the digital signature is verified, the first controllermodule 36 can access the data records of the database corresponding tothe validated digital signature. That is, the data in the set ofnavigation databases can only be accessed by the first controller module36 once the digital signature is validated. The first controller module36 can use a tool, such as an interactive navigational database tool, toaccess the data records of the validated database. By way ofnon-limiting example, the interactive navigational database tool canbrowse, explore, review, inspect, or otherwise access, edit, organize,display, or convert the data or information in or related to the set ofnavigation databases. It is contemplated that the functions performed bythe first controller module 36 can be, in fact, completed by theinteractive navigational database tool loaded to the first controllermodule 36.

Access to the data in the set of navigational databases by the firstcontroller module 36 can occur upon request or automatically in responseto the digital signature verification. By way of non-limiting example,once the validity of the digital signature of each of the set ofdatabases is confirmed, the first controller module 36 can beginprocessing or accessing the data within each navigational database ofthe set of navigational databases.

Once accessed, the first controller module 36 can allow the user of thefirst remote server 30 to browse navigational databases via the firstdisplay 38, directly view specific pieces of data in one or moreselected navigational databases via the first display 38, or viewselected properties of data in the navigational databases via the firstdisplay 38.

The set of navigational databases received by the first controllermodule 36 can include multiple disparate navigation databases. Themultiple disparate navigation databases can by way of non-limitingexample include at least two cycles of information for the FMS of theaircraft 10. That is, the set of navigational databases received at 302can include one or more of the previous cycles or versions of thenavigational database as well as the current cycle or newest version ofthe navigational database. Alternatively, the set of navigationaldatabases received at 302 can include only the current cycle or newestversion of the navigational database, while the one or more of theprevious cycles or versions of the navigational database can be storedin the first remote server 30 and accessed by the first controllermodule 36.

Optionally at 308, a gold standard database or reference database iscreated. By way of non-limiting example, the refence database created at308 is the current cycle or newest version of the reference database.Previous cycles or versions of the reference database can containvalidated fields, records, or data from previously created referencedatabases. A reference database can be created for each navigationaldatabase of the set of navigational databases. Alternatively, two ormore of the set of navigational databases can be used to create ormaintain one or more reference databases. It is contemplated thatmultiple reference databases can be used to track different data types.

Optionally at 310, one of sameness or differentness can be determinedbetween fields, records, or data of the current cycle or newest versionof the reference database and one or more of the previous cycles orversions of the reference database. By way of non-limiting example, ifthe fields, records, or data in the current cycle or newest version ofthe reference database are the same as the previous cycle or within apredetermined range, then the fields, records, or data in the current ornewest version of the reference database are designated with anindication of sameness. If the fields, records, or data in the currentcycle or newest version of the reference database are different oroutside a predetermined range from the fields, records, or data in theone or more of the previous cycles or versions, then the fields,records, or data in the current or newest version of the referencedatabase is designated with an indication of differentness. Thedetermination of the sameness or the differentness between the fields,records, or data can include determining an overall change statisticbetween the current cycle or newest version of the reference databaseand the one or more of the previous cycles or versions of the referencedatabase.

An overall change statistic can be illustrated or communicated audially,graphically, or numerically on or by the first display 38. Additionally,or alternatively, the first display 38 can display or provide aside-by-side comparison of the fields, records, or data of the two ormore cycles of the reference database with sameness or differentnessindicated by highlighted fields, records, or data.

The first display 38 can allow the user to update or amend the referencedatabase. The first controller module 36 allows the user to includehistorical information for a data record including at leastuser-provided comments and date stamp for entry updates.

Optionally, at 312, the first controller module 36 can automatically, orupon user request, identify duplicative or invalid instances ofinformation in independent fields, interrelated fields, interrelatedrecords, or support data from the set of navigation databases. Theidentification of the duplicative or the invalid instances ofinformation can occur by the comparing of at least one field, record, ordata between at least two cycles or multiple disparate navigationaldatabases. That is, the duplicative or the invalid instances ofinformation can be determined by the first controller module 36recursively comparing one or more fields, records, or data of the atleast two cycles.

The duplicative instances can be, by way of non-limiting example, datathat is similar, identical, or includes sameness identification. Theinvalid instances can be, by way of non-limiting example, data that isdifferent or includes a differentness indication.

Similar to 310, the comparing to identify the duplicative or the invalidinstances at 312 can include determining one of a sameness or adifferentness of the fields, records, or data in two or more cyclesdefining the multiple disparate navigation databases. By way ofnon-limiting example, if the fields, records, or data in the currentcycle or newest version of the navigational database are the same as theprevious cycle or within a predetermined range, then the fields,records, or data in the current or newest version of the navigationaldatabase are designated with an indication of sameness. If the fields,records, or data in the current cycle or newest version of thenavigational database are different or outside a predetermined rangefrom the fields, records, or data in the one or more of the previouscycles or versions, then the fields, records, or data in the current ornewest version of the navigational database is designated with anindication of differentness. The determination of the sameness or thedifferentness between the fields, records, or data can includedetermining an overall change statistic between a first database and asecond database or between the two different cycles in a singledatabase.

An overall change statistic can be illustrated or communicated aurally,graphically, or numerically on or by the first display 38. Additionally,or alternatively, the first display 38 can display or provide aside-by-side comparison of the fields, records, or data of the multipledisparate navigation databases with differences indicated by highlightedfields, records, or data.

By way of non-limiting example, a final updated version of anavigational database can be a combination of multiple disparatenavigation databases, where the information identified as the same isretained and not duplicated. For information identified as different,one of the two or more different data fields can be selectively chosenby the user or the controller module 36 to be included in the finalupdated version of the reference database.

Alternatively, the duplicative or the invalid instances identified bythe first controller module 36 comparing the multiple disparatenavigation databases can be deleted or removed, leaving the finalupdated version of the navigational database the selectively chosen datafields that were identified as different.

By further non-limiting example, a final updated version of thereference database can be a combination of multiple disparate referencedatabases, where the information identified as the same is retained andnot duplicated. For information identified as different, one of the twoor more different values can be selectively chosen by the user toinclude in the final updated version of the reference database.

At 314, the first controller module 36 can create aircraft loadablemedia for the FMS based on the set of navigation databases. Optionally,the aircraft loadable media for the FMS can be based, at least in part,on one or more reference databases. The aircraft loadable media can bein the format required by a specific FMS. It is contemplated that morethan one format of aircraft loadable media can be created based on thesame navigational database or reference database. The aircraft loadablemedia can be loaded to the external data storage device 31 forcommunication with the computer 22 of the aircraft 10. Alternatively,the aircraft loadable media can be communicated to the computer 22 viathe ground station 32. By way of non-limiting example, the aircraftloadable media can update the FMS NDB housed in the computer 22 (FIG.1).

FIG. 4 illustrates a method 400 for displaying navigation databaseinformation such as during the accessing data at 306 of method 300 or at406 of method 400. At 402, the first control module 36 can optionallyreceive a signal or instruction command to initiate the comparisoncommand. At 404, the first control module 36 displays the comparisoninterface 600 (non-limiting examples of the comparison interface 600shown in FIGS. 6A-6B). The comparison interface 600 can display a homescreen indicating the comparison command has initiated. The comparisoninterface can also have a data structure comprising a plurality of nodesand at least one child of each of the plurality of nodes. The comparisoninterface can also include at least one of an unchanged button, achanged button, a left only button, or a right only button. The user canselect at least one of the unchanged button, the changed button, theleft only button, or the right only button to customize the comparisoninterface 600 (as further described in FIGS. 7A and 7B).

At 406, the first controller module 36 displays an options box, such asan options box 500 (as shown in FIG. 5). The options box 500 can have adata architecture for supporting integration of multiple disparatenavigation databases. The multiple disparate navigation databases cancomprise at least two cycles of information for a flight managementsystem of an aircraft. Also, the multiple disparate navigation databasescan be formatted in a binary database including a digital signature andfurther comprising automatically determining a validity of the digitalsignature before one of loading the information for displaying or thecomparing. At 408, the first controller module 36 receives a first userselection and a second user selection within the options box 500 relatedto a first and second database of the multiple disparate navigationdatabases that differ.

At 410, the first control module 36 can further receive a signalprompting, instructing, or otherwise initiating a comparison, to occurwithin the comparison interface once the first and second databases areselected. The commanding comparison signal can be in the form of theuser selecting a button within the options box 500 similar to a button512 (as shown in FIG. 5). The first control module 36 can alsoautomatically compare a first data set of the first database to a seconddata set in the second database eliminating the need for the userselecting a button within the options box 500.

Still referring to FIG. 4, at 412, the first control module 36 candisplay a comparison result within a new tab on the comparisoninterface. In another example, the first control module 36 can minimizethe options box 500. Alternatively, the first control module 36 canclose the options box 500. The comparison results can include aside-by-side comparison view, where the user can see at least one nodeand at least one child on the left-hand side, the results of the firstdatabase in the center, the results of the second database on the right.The benefit of the side-by-side view allows the user to view, on the onedisplay screen, in one interface, the results of the first database andthe second database, which correspond to the selected data types or atleast one node 502 (as shown in FIG. 5) and the at least one childidentified in the options box 500.

In another non-limiting example, the first controller module 36 canindicate at least one node and at least one child if the results of thefirst data base matches or differs from the second database. Theindication can be illustrated on the first display 38, within thecomparison interface 600, by highlighting and/or color coding theresults of the respective databases, as further discussed with respectto FIG. 6B. The color coding can conform to the user preferences in thesettings of the comparison interface within the home page. For example,the comparison results displayed in the side-by-side comparison view canalso depict a tree-view of the plurality nodes and children of nodes asselected in the options box at 412. Each node and child of node can beindicated until the user selects the branch of the tree that matches ordiffers within the first and second databases or until thedifferentiating information is displayed down the tree-view.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the option box 500 within thecomparison interface 600 (as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B). The option box 500can also be identified as a compare navigation databases box. Theoptions box 500 illustrates the location of the first and seconddatabases, also illustrated as left and right navigation databases,respectively 504, 506. Each database 504, 506 can be changed byselecting user input buttons 508, 510, respectively.

In one example, the first controller module 36 can receive the signalprompting comparison to occur within the comparison interfaceautomatically as two databases 504, 506, are loaded. In another examplethe option box can also include a plurality of data types 502, whichfilter out specified nodes 502 or data information from the first andsecond database 504, 506. The filtering outputs data information whichcorrespond to the selected node 502 in the comparison results. Anexample of the specified node can pertain to information concerningairports, airways, alternate destinations, company routes, gates, pathpoints, runways, waypoints, and any other flight management datainformation within the industry. The first controller module 36 (notshown) can output the comparison results with the selected informationas the signal prompting comparison is received. The first controllermodule 36 can receive the signal prompting comparison via a buttonwithin options box 500 similar to the button 512.

For example, the first controller module 36 can allow the user toinclude historical information for a data record including at leastuser-provided comments and date stamp for entry updates. Anotherexample, the first controller module 36 can allow the user to select atleast one data type 502, which can be displayed on the first display 38(for example, shown in FIG. 1). Once the first display 38 shows thecomparison results within the comparison interface 600, data can beloaded onto the Aircraft Loadable Media (loadable media) 504. In anotherexample, the first display 38 can show only one database withoutcomparison between two databases.

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate the comparison interface 600 displayingcomparison results of the first database 602 and the second database604, such as the first and second databases 504, 506 of FIG. 7. Thecomparison interface 600 can include a tabbed interface, including ahome tab 606 and a compare tab 608. For example, the comparisoninterface 600 can display the home screen in response to the selectionof the home tab 606 and hide the comparison tab 608. In anothernon-limited example, the comparison interface 600 can display thecomparison results in response to the selection of the compare tab 608and hide the home screen. The compare tab can display a plurality ofnodes and children 610, 612. The nodes and children 610, 612 cancorrespond to the plurality of nodes or data types, 610, selected inoptions box 500.

FIG. 6A illustrates the comparison results of the first database 602 isthe same in the comparison results in the second database 604. Incontrast, FIG. 6B illustrates an example set of comparison results whenthe first database 602 differs from the comparison results of the seconddatabase 604. FIG. 6B also illustrates the different results of each ofthe first and second databases 602, 604, by including a set of indicatorboxes 614 around each respective element that differs between therespective databases 602, 604 within the comparison interface.

In another non-limiting example, the indicating or indication that anelement in the first database 602 differs from an element in the seconddatabase 604 can include indicating each element with a specified color,highlight, or solid box surrounding the indicated element. The specifiedcolors can be customized to the user preference via the gear button 712(as shown in FIGS. 7A-7B). In another non-limiting example, a pluralityof indicator boxes 614 can be used to indicate matching data as well asmismatched data between each database 602, 604.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate a close-up or zoomed example portion 700 of thecomparison interface 600 illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6B. The zoomed exampleportion 700 of the comparison interface 600 of FIGS. 7A-7B illustrates aplurality of buttons. Each button sends a signal to the first controllermodule 36 reflective of, or representing an optional display mode of thecomparison results of each database. For example, a first display modeselection representative of, or indicative of an unchanged button or anequal sign button 702 can be selected displaying only the comparisonresults of the first database and the second database that are the same.Another example, a second display mode selection representative of, orindicative of a changed button or a non-equal sign button 704 can beselected displaying only the comparison results of the first databaseand the second database that are the different. Yet still anotherexample, a third display mode selection representative of, or indicativeviewing only the first database 602, the left arrow button 706 can beselected displaying only the comparison results of only the firstdatabase and hiding the results of the second database. It iscontemplated that the buttons are not mutually exclusive. That is theuser can select any combination of the buttons to display the comparisonas desired. It is further contemplated that the buttons or additionalbuttons can be provided that are customizable.

Another example, a fourth display mode selection representative of, orindicative of viewing only the second database 604, the right arrowbutton 708 can be selected displaying the comparison results of only thesecond database and hiding the results of the first database.Furthermore, in another non-limiting example, the display modepreferences can be selected via a gear button 712, which can display asetting preference box. In some examples, the setting preference box canallow the user to manipulate how the indicator boxes appear within thedisplay, e.g. color options, bolded box options, etc. of the comparisonresults. In another non-limited example, the gear button 712 canre-select the options discussed in FIG. 5 with respect to the optionsbox.

Also, FIG. 7A illustrates an indicator box 714 surrounding a child ofthe node 716. The indicator box 714 can indicate the presence or absenceof at least one of a matching element or an element that differs withinthat respective branch of the child of node 716 (e.g. “Child 1.1”).Again, an indicator can be identified by an indicator box 714 (asillustrated), highlighted, bolded, color-coded, etc. FIG. 7B illustratesanother example of the zoomed example portion 700 of the comparisoninterface 600 wherein the tree-view of a node 716 and a plurality ofchildren 718 without an indicator, that is, the absence of the indicatorbox 714 indicating there are no differing element data.

FIG. 7C illustrates another display mode selection representative of, orindicative of a line graph button 710 can be selected for operablydisplaying the statistical summary of the comparison results. Thestatistical summary or compare stats 720 can gather information of aplurality of nodes 722 within the comparison results and outputstatistical data 724 such as a numbered amount or a percentage amount ofunchanged nodes, changed nodes, left only nodes, right only nodes, and atotal amount of nodes.

The aspects disclosed herein provide a method for facilitating datacommunication. The technical effect is that the above described aspectsenable the user to quickly identify similarities and differences in databetween two databases. One advantage associated with the disclosurediscussed herein can include, but are not limited to, the intuitiveside-by-side comparison of multiple databases.

Additional benefits include using one or both of the DAFIF and ARINC 424data and transferring them to an intermediate form where the controllermodule can further analyze data or convert the incoming data to the setof navigational databases in the binary form. The conversion to thebinary format or the set of navigational databases uses the data qualityrequirements as indexes, allowing for quick reporting or viewingaccording to the data quality requirements.

Further, benefits include checking and digitally signing the binary dataor each of the set of navigational databases to ensure accuracy andauthenticity before communicating. The digital signature can then beverified by the one or more controller modules that receive the binarydata or each of the set of navigational databases. A benefit of this isthat a vehicle or FMS can detect a counterfeit database or hackeddatabase which does not have a valid signature. Further still, a tailnumber for the aircraft can be associated with the database so it can bedetermined that the database went to the appropriate aircraft.

The interactive navigational database tool that receives the binary dataor each of the set of navigational databases on the controller modulecan provide output data to another database, generate a gold standard orreference database, as well as create aircraft media in the requiredform of the FMS NDB.

Additional benefits include quickly identifying data that has beenadded, removed, or changed in an intuitive side-by-side comparison. Someother added benefits of this system are the capability of tailoring thedata and validating required navigation performance (RNP) withauthorization required (AR) procedures, simple monitoring of navigationdata, enabling efficient procedure validation, and the ability tomaintain a detailed history of every record.

Additional benefits include the capability to split loadable binary NDBsinto load sets that support ARINC 615-3 loading, ARINC 615A loading,loading from floppy disk or diskettes, loading directly from a harddrive, loading from portable memory devices, loading over ARINC 429 andloading via ethernet.

Further the interactive navigational database tool allows a user tobrowse the entire contents of the NDB and search for specific contentswithin the NDB. The interactive navigational database tool can expandand explore references to multiple databases with an industry-standardformat as well as export a binary NDB to an industry-standard formatallowing users to develop their own specialized tool set.

This written description uses examples to describe aspects of thedisclosure described herein, including the best mode, and also to enableany person skilled in the art to practice aspects of the disclosure,including making and using any devices or systems and performing anyincorporated methods. The patentable scope of aspects of the disclosureis defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur tothose skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be withinthe scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do notdiffer from the literal language of the claims, or if they includeequivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from theliteral languages of the claims.

Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by the subject matter ofthe following clauses:

A method for displaying navigation database information comprisingdisplaying a comparison interface using a data structure comprising aplurality of nodes and a data architecture for supporting integration ofmultiple disparate navigation databases, displaying an options boxwithin the comparison interface, receiving, by a controller module, afirst user selection related to a first database of the multipledisparate navigation databases, receiving, by the controller module, asecond user selection related to a second database of the multipledisparate navigation databases, the second database distinct from thefirst database, comparing, by the controller module, first data in thefirst database to second data in the second database, and displaying acomparison result within the comparison interface, wherein thecomparison result includes the first selection and the second selection.

The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprisingreceiving, by the controller module, a comparison command from a userand wherein the comparing is prompted by the comparison command.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein the comparisoninterface includes at least one of a changed button, an unchangedbutton, a left only button, or a right only button and a selection ofthe at least one of the changed button, an unchanged button, the leftonly button, or the right only button is the comparison command.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein displaying theplurality of nodes includes displaying a plurality of children within atleast one of the plurality of nodes.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein displaying thecomparison result also includes displaying the first selection and thesecond selection in a side-by-side view.

The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprisingdetermining, by the controller module, at least one node of the firstselection is the same as a corresponding at least one node of the secondselection and providing an indicator thereof during the displaying.

The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprisingdetermining, by the controller module, at least wherein displaying thecomparison result also includes differentiating at least one node of thefirst selection that differs at least one node of the second selection.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein the indicator is oneof a highlight or a color change.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein the displayingincludes displaying a tree-view of information and dynamically changingthe indicator until the differentiating information is displayed downthe tree-view.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein displaying thecomparison result also includes displaying a tree-view of at least oneof the first selection and the second selection comprising at least onenode and at least one child node.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein the multipledisparate navigation databases comprise at least two cycles ofinformation for a flight management system of an aircraft.

The method of any of the preceding clauses wherein the multipledisparate navigation databases are formatted in a binary databaseincluding a digital signature and further comprising automaticallydetermining a validity of the digital signature before one of loadingthe information for displaying or the comparing.

A system for comparing a plurality of navigation databases, the systemcomprises, a display, a controller module operably coupled to thedisplay and configured to, receive the disparate databases, display acomparison interface using a data structure comprising a plurality ofnodes and a data architecture for supporting integration of multipledisparate navigation databases, display an options box within thecomparison interface, receive, by a controller module, a first userselection related to a first database of the multiple disparatenavigation databases, receive, by the controller module, a second userselection related to a second database of the multiple disparatenavigation databases, the second database different from the firstdatabase, compare, by the controller module, first data in the firstdatabase to second data in the second database, and display a comparisonresult within the comparison interface, wherein the comparison resultincludes the first selection and the second selection.

The system of any of the preceding clauses further receives, by thecontroller module, a comparison command from a user, wherein thecomparison command compares the disparate databases via a comparisoninterface including at least one of a changed button, an unchangedbutton, a left only button, or a right only button and a selection ofthe at least one of the changed button, the unchanged button, the leftonly button, or the right only button is the comparison command.

The system of any of the preceding clauses wherein the control moduledisplays, via the display, the plurality of nodes including a pluralityof children within at least one of the plurality of nodes.

The system of any of the preceding clauses wherein the control moduledisplays, via the display, the comparison result as the first selectionand the second selection in a side-by-side view.

The system of any of the preceding clauses, further determines, by thecontroller module, at least one node of the first selection is thesame/different as a corresponding at least one node of the secondselection and providing an indicator thereof during the displaying.

The system of any of the preceding clauses wherein the indicator is oneof a highlight or a color change.

The system of any of the preceding clauses wherein the control moduledisplays, via the display, a tree-view of information and dynamicallychanging the indicator until the differentiating information isdisplayed down the tree-view of at least one of the first selection andthe second selection comprising at least one node and at least one childnode.

The system of any of the preceding clauses wherein the multipledisparate navigation databases comprise at least two cycles ofinformation for a flight management system of an aircraft.

To the extent not already described, the different features andstructures of the various aspects can be used in combination, or insubstitution with each other as desired. That one feature is notillustrated in all of the examples is not meant to be construed that itcannot be so illustrated, but is done for brevity of description. Thus,the various features of the different aspects can be mixed and matchedas desired to form new aspects, whether or not the new aspects areexpressly described. All combinations or permutations of featuresdescribed herein are covered by this disclosure.

This written description uses examples to describe aspects of thedisclosure described herein, including the best mode, and also to enableany person skilled in the art to practice aspects of the disclosure,including making and using any devices or systems and performing anyincorporated methods. The patentable scope of aspects of the disclosureis defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur tothose skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be withinthe scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do notdiffer from the literal language of the claims, or if they includeequivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from theliteral languages of the claims.

1. A method for displaying navigation database information, the methodcomprising: displaying a comparison interface using a data structurecomprising a plurality of nodes, wherein each of the plurality of nodesis related to a specific data type and a data architecture forsupporting integration of multiple disparate navigation databases;displaying an options box within the comparison interface; receiving, bya controller module, a first user selection related to a firstnavigation database of the multiple disparate navigation databases;receiving, by the controller module, a second user selection related toa second navigation database of the multiple disparate navigationdatabases, the second navigation database distinct from the firstnavigation database; comparing, by the controller module, first data inthe first navigation database to second data in the second navigationdatabase, wherein the first data and the second data correspond to atleast one of the plurality of nodes selected in the options box and area same specific data type from each of the first navigation database andthe second navigation database; displaying a comparison result withinthe comparison interface, wherein the comparison result includes thefirst user selection and the second user selection; changing, via userselection, the first data or the second data based on the comparison;and selectively displaying, within the comparison interface, astatistical summary of the comparison of the first data in the firstnavigation database to the second data in the second navigationdatabase.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving, by thecontroller module, a comparison command from a user and wherein thecomparing is prompted by the comparison command.
 3. The method of claim2, wherein the comparison interface includes at least one of a changedbutton, an unchanged button, a left only button, or a right only buttonand a selection of the at least one of the changed button, the unchangedbutton, the left only button, or the right only button is the comparisoncommand.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein displaying the plurality ofnodes includes displaying a plurality of children within at least one ofthe plurality of nodes.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein displaying thecomparison result also includes displaying the first user selection andthe second user selection in a side-by-side view.
 6. The method of claim1, further comprising determining, by the controller module, whether thefirst data of the first user selection is the same as a correspondingsecond data of the second user selection and providing an indicatorthereof during the displaying.
 7. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising determining, by the controller module, whether at least onenode of the first user selection differs to a corresponding at least onenode of the second user selection and providing an indicator thereofduring the displaying.
 8. (canceled)
 9. The method of claim 1, whereinthe displaying includes displaying a tree-view of information anddynamically changing an indicator until at least one differentiatinginformation of the comparison result is displayed down the tree-view.10. The method of claim 1, wherein displaying the comparison result alsoincludes displaying a tree-view of at least one of the first userselection and the second user selection comprising at least one node andat least one child node.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the multipledisparate navigation databases comprise at least two cycles ofinformation for a flight management system of an aircraft. 12.(canceled)
 13. A system for comparing a plurality of navigationdatabases, the system comprises: a display; a controller module operablycoupled to the display and configured to: receive a set of disparatedatabases, display a comparison interface using a data structurecomprising a plurality of nodes wherein each of the plurality of nodesis related to a specific data type and a data architecture forsupporting integration of multiple disparate navigation databases;display an options box within the comparison interface; receive, by thecontroller module, at least one of the plurality of nodes selected fromthe options box; receive, by the controller module, a first selectionrelated to a first navigation database of the multiple disparatenavigation databases; receive, by the controller module, a secondselection related to a second navigation database of the multipledisparate navigation databases, the second navigation database differentfrom the first navigation database; compare, by the controller module,first data in the first navigation database to second data in the secondnavigation database, wherein the first data and the second datacorrespond to the at least one of the plurality of nodes or data typesselected in the options box and are a same specific data type from eachof the first navigation database and the second navigation database;display a comparison result within the comparison interface, wherein thecomparison result includes the first selection and the second selection;and display, selectively, within the comparison interface, a statisticalsummary of the comparison of the first data in the first navigationdatabase to the second data in the second navigation database.
 14. Thesystem of claim 13 further receives, by the controller module, acomparison command from a user, wherein the comparison command comparesthe set of disparate databases via the comparison interface including atleast one of a changed button, an unchanged button, a left only button,or a right only button and a selection of the at least one of thechanged button, the unchanged button, the left only button, or the rightonly button is the comparison command.
 15. The system of claim 13,wherein the controller module displays, via the display, the pluralityof nodes including a plurality of children within at least one of theplurality of nodes.
 16. The system of claim 13, wherein the controllermodule displays, via the display, the comparison result as the firstselection and the second selection in a side-by-side view.
 17. Thesystem of claim 13, further determines, by the controller module, atleast one node of the first selection matches/un-matches a correspondingat least one node of the second selection and providing an indicatorthereof during the displaying.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein theindicator is one of a highlight or a color change.
 19. The system ofclaim 13, wherein the controller module displays, via the display, atree-view of information and dynamically changing an indicator until atleast one differentiating information of the comparison result isdisplayed down the tree-view of at least one of the first selection andthe second selection comprising at least one node and at least one childnode.
 20. The system of claim 13, wherein the multiple disparatenavigation databases comprise at least two cycles of information for aflight management system of an aircraft.
 21. A method for displayingnavigation database information, the method comprising: displaying anoptions box within a comparison interface for supporting integration ofmultiple disparate navigation databases, wherein the multiple disparatenavigation databases include a first navigational database and a secondnavigational database, each of the first navigational database andsecond navigational database including data related to aircraftnavigation; receiving at a controller module, via the options box, afirst user selection of the first navigational database selected fromthe multiple disparate navigation databases, receiving at the controllermodule, via the options box, a second user selection of the secondnavigational database that is distinct from the first navigationaldatabase, wherein the second navigational database selected is from themultiple disparate navigation databases, comparing, by the controllermodule, first data in the first navigational database to second data inthe second navigational database, wherein the first data and the seconddata correspond to at least one of a plurality of nodes or data typesselected in the options box and are a same specific data type from eachof the first navigational database and the second navigational database;determining a comparison result from the comparing; displaying thecomparison result within the comparison interface, wherein thecomparison result includes a side-by-side comparison of the first datain the first user selection and the second data in the second userselection; changing, via user selection, the first data or the seconddata based on the comparison to obtain a reference navigationaldatabase; and creating aircraft loadable media, based on the referencenavigational database.
 22. The method of claim 21, further comprisingchanging the first data or the second data based on the comparison.